I am often asked for my perspective on D&I issues— how to increase the BIPOC pipeline, how can we support the promotion and growth of Black and Brown leaders, and what needs to be done.

My answer: we need to start at the beginning.

We need to ensure basic needs are met for all populations, and not just those in certain zip codes or neighborhoods.

Maslow’s hierarchy of needs starts with the things we need to survive: Homes. Food. Healthcare.

These are organizations that I support regularly because they focus on those basic needs to enable families to survive and provide psychological safety in the face of inequity.

We need to build the foundation.

Please join me in supporting any of these organizations, or let it inspire you to find your own.

- Jean